Retrospective Comparison of Empiric Antivenom vs. Expectant Treatment for Eastern Coral Snakebites.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

The coral snake is the only native elapid in North America. Their venom contains potent neurotoxins. Historically, all confirmed/presumed bites were treated with antivenom whether or not symptoms were present. Production of antivenom ceased in 2003. The resultant national shortage prompted clinicians to investigate alternative treatment strategies such as a wait-and-see approach where antivenom is held until signs of systemic toxicity manifest. Now that production has resumed there is limited research available comparing these two treatment paradigms, empiric administration vs the wait-and-see approach. Our objective in this study was to compare outcomes of the two treatment paradigms to determine whether one is associated with better patient outcomes.

Methods

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SUBMITTER: Simmons R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12815500 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature